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This issue covers Part I of a two-part series on evaluation and management of sexual assault in the emergency department. Part I of the series discusses initial ED care, physical exam, and evidence collection. Part II will cover laboratory analysis, pharmacotherapy, disposition, follow-up, documentation, and court testimony.
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The authors of this issue point out that 3-11% of malpractice dollars paid are disbursed for wound-related cases. Although wound infections may occur despite proper wound care, the detection of tendon or nerve injuries as well as joint violations requires a higher index of suspicion. This months review of wound management and its pitfalls serves the reader well by keeping the practitioner attentive to the potential problems of wound care.
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Pertussis, or whooping cough, was first described in the 16th century, and the causative agent was isolated in 1906. Nonetheless, pertussis remained a major cause of morbidity and mortality among ch ildren well into the 20th century.
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Hypothermia causes 700-800 deaths per year in the United States alone. Half of those who die are older than 65 years. Many patients are hypothermic when they arrive in the emergency department (ED), but hypothermia may result from or be aggravated by failing to protect the patient from heat loss, administering room temperature or chilled IV fluids or blood, or using drugs that suppress shivering.
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